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Cork Harbour

Cork Harbour, situated in Ireland’s southern coast, is believed to be the second largest natural harbour in the world. Steeped in history from its very beginning the harbour is most commonly known to date for its natural beauty and discreet man made military fortifications.

Spike Island is centrally located within view of the mouth of the harbour, and was part of a strategic military coastal defence system for the surrounding areas, along with 3 other neighbouring forts, Fort Carlisle on the eastern approach, Camden Fort Meagher and Fort Templebreedy on the western side. It was built to protect against any threats of invasion and there were many, from a French treat in the early 19th century to a German one in the early 20th century.

As well as the forts, there are also numerous Martello towers, a Magazine (ammunition store), Castles and the country’s main Naval base. At the time of much of the construction Cork harbour's defenses would have been at the pinnacle of military technology and would have made the harbour among the best defended in the world.

Being the largest original port entrance in the country has created an industry of its own for the area. With the livelihood of Cork and the wider country depending on the safeguarding of the harbour, it is little wonder that the Irish Navy are based in the area along with decades of army presence. A visit to the harbour reveals the continued vibrant buzz of merchant shipping, Naval vessels, import and export ships and ongoing ship building.

Generations after all threats of attack were removed Cork Harbour still plays a vital role in Ireland’s culture and industry. The harbour is still recognised for its fortification and historic relevance, but now also has industrial significance. It continuously boasts a strong worldwide commercial shipping network and also contributes to Ireland’s tourism sector, welcoming international cruise liners all year round, seasonal ferry crossing to France which creates ease of access to Europe.

The Cork International Airport is within close proximity making the region well connected by all International transport routes. Each of these factors in turn promotes a healthy multinational work force in pharmaceutical production and IT development and the future is bright for one of the most stunning natural harbours in the world.

Gift Vouchers

Our new souvenir audioplayer is a first – developed by In Hand Guides, a Cork based company, it is the first site in the world using their new beacon technology, which activates the player hands free as you walk around.
Available in 4 languages English, Irish, French, German.

Hear about prisoners' escapes, the toughness of the regime, the handing over from British rule, the firing of the 6 inch guns and more in the 40 audio tracks. The player is yours to keep and makes a great souvenir.

Went over to Spike Island during the summer. What a great day out, very interesting place, great walks and a big field if you wanted too chill out or if the kids want to play. It has a shop so you can get food and drinks. You could make a whole day out of it, there was more added to it during the year so can't wait to go over again this summer, would highly recommend it.

Yvonne

Ireland

We visited for a day trip in Sept 2015 after hearing fab reviews from family members. A beautiful historical island with stunning views of Cobh harbour and the Irish Naval base.
The ferry trip out was lovely as it was a beautiful day. Our tour guide John was very knowledgable and had a real passion for the islands history which made the experience so much better for us.
The tour is split into 2 sections with a coffee break in between, there is a coffee shop on the Island that sells beautiful local cakes

Nicola D

Ireland

We had the pleasure & experience of visiting Spike Island on a day trip the journey from Cobh harbour was by ferry, the crew were great giving information & answering questions. Our tour guide was brilliant, an ex navy man himself, spent time with all. He really got across the history of Spike. A day trip everyone should try at least once. Prices were very reasonable for souvenirs & the coffee shop. We will definitely go again well done to the people of Cobh for having & maintaining such a famous landmark.

Bernard & Helena Mc Cathy

Ireland

Great Tour of the Island. My Family and I visited Spike Island (February) and we all found it very interesting. The trip on the ferry accross was great and we were lucky it was a dry day. You would have to wrap up though as it is quite cold. We found it very interesting. Some of it was derelict and more of it was modernised as it was used as a prison. For history lovers it is a great place to go. The views of Cobh from the Island are magnificent.